Health officials are warning the public after a batch of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus for the first time this year in McHenry County.
A mosquito “pool,” also known as a batch of mosquitoes, was sampled on Tuesday in Lake in the Hills and tested positive for West Nile virus.
The McHenry County Department of Public Health said this mosquito pool is the first confirmed indicator of West Nile virus presence in McHenry County in 2022.
Four birds were submitted for testing from McHenry County so far this year and all have been negative for the virus.
Officials in nearby Lake County recommend the public practice the “4 Ds of Defense” to protect themselves and family from mosquitoes:
- Drain: Drain standing water from items around your home, yard, and business.
- Defend: When outdoors, use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, 2-undecanone, or IR3535 and reapply according to label directions.
- Dawn and Dusk: Protect yourself all day and night, and wear repellent outdoors during these prime times for mosquito activity.
- Dress: Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes when outdoors to cover your skin.
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